DeSoto County issues burn ban | Environment

(WMC-TV) – Residents could face a fine if they start an outdoor fire now that officials have instituted a burn ban.

"On Wednesday, DeSoto County officials issued a county wide ban of all open burning due to lack of rain and low humidity levels,” a county spokesman said in a written statement. “The ban came at the request of Mississippi Forestry Commission after assessing current conditions within the area.”

The ban doesn’t make it illegal to use outdoor grills for cooking. However, anyone caught setting other types of fires could face of between $100 and $500.  

The ban is effective immediately and runs through July 27. However, it can be rescinded sooner if conditions improve.

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